At the heart of the exhibition lies a captivating tale: imagine imperial jewels whisked across the Atlantic under the threat of war, hidden in Québec for decades, and now unveiled to the public as a bridge between European grandeur and French-Canadian heritage.

Above photo: Unknown European jeweller, Hat pin in the colours of the Austrian Empire, 18^th century. Silver, gilt silver/gold, diamonds, and yellow sapphires, 11.5 × 5.5 × 1.8 cm. Saint Joseph Trust // Photo: MNBAQ, Louis Hébert

Related story: Leah Yard Designs: West Coast lighthouse-inspired jewelry

Far more than shimmering gems, these treasures carry an extraordinary backstory. Picture them arriving in Canada in a humble brown briefcase, then spending nearly a century in secrecy within a Québec City bank vault—waiting for their moment to shine.

Visitors will follow in the footsteps of Zita of Bourbon-Parma, the last Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary, whose journey brought her—and this imperial collection—to refuge in Québec City in October 1940.

The jewels’ historic journey

After the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire at the end of World War I, Emperor Charles and Empress Zita went into exile.

As the world convulsed during the Second World War, Zita escaped Nazi troops and found sanctuary at Villa Saint-Joseph in Sillery—a quiet corner of Québec City with stories whispering from its walls.

Here, the imperial family forged friendships and memories that linger in Québec’s collective consciousness. The jewels—tucked away, their whereabouts a closely guarded secret—became woven into the province’s hidden history.

Now, for the first time, the hidden treasures of the Habsburg royal jewels emerge from the shadows at the MNBAQ. Among them is the fabled 137-carat Florentine Diamond—a glowing centrepiece in a story of exile, resilience, and the remarkable bond between Québec and the Old World.

A three-part journey

Your visit to the MNBAQ’s Hidden Treasures exhibition begins with sweeping historical milestones: the grandeur of the Habsburg dynasty, Charles Habsburg-Lorraine’s fairy-tale marriage to Zita of Bourbon-Parma in 1911, the Empire’s sudden fall in 1918, and the winding path of exile that ultimately led the empress and her children to Quebec’s welcoming shores.

Next, travellers will discover how the imperial saga intertwines with Québec’s own heritage through 19th-century artworks and artifacts. The focus narrows to Québec City, where the family’s friendships, the ongoing enigma of the jewels, and generational secrets heighten the narrative’s suspense.

The final stop? A breathtaking display of all 15 jewels, accompanied by the very briefcase that safeguarded them across continents and decades. Standing before these artifacts, visitors are invited to contemplate the resilience of a dynasty—and the extraordinary odyssey of a family searching for a new home.

Long hidden from the world, the Habsburg royal jewels at the MNBAQ now invite you to see them not as mere luxuries but as silent storytellers, bearing witness to survival, resilience, and the unexpected ties that bind Europe and Québec.

Insignia of the Order of the Golden Fleece

Among the highlights, you’ll spot the Insignia of the Order of the Golden Fleece—one of Europe’s most storied chivalric orders. Dating to the 18th century, this medallion was worn by Charles I at his wake, representing the Habsburgs’ deep-rooted legacy and faith.

Marie Antoinette pocket watch

Another must-see: an exquisite pocket watch that once belonged to Marie Antoinette herself—a glittering intersection of jewelry and history. Hidden away during the French Revolution, it eventually found its way back to Marie Antoinette’s daughter as a wedding gift. Flip it over, and you’ll spot a lock of hair, thought to be from Empress Maria Theresa, adding a touch of poignancy to this royal keepsake.

The Florentine Diamond

The crown jewel of the exhibition is, without question, the Florentine Diamond—an icon of Habsburg opulence and intrigue. Once believed lost for over a century, this 137-carat marvel dazzles with its pure, light-yellow glow and intricate double rose cut. Its journey across royal courts and continents is the ultimate traveler’s tale, culminating right here in Québec.

Hidden Treasures: A Century of Mystery is now on display at the MNBAQ in Quebec City.

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A favourite among those who live and breathe local fashion, Leah’s creations are the ultimate secret for the city’s most discerning style insiders. For us, fashion is all about being in the know.

Since founding her namesake studio in 2013, Leah Yard has become synonymous with Vancouver’s chicest moments. This latest fall/holiday preview—a dazzling affair for a lucky few—sets the tone for a season defined by West Coast radiance, versatility, and personal expression.

Fashion story: EFWA Buya Subi Collection

The inspiration: Carry the Light

This season’s collection is Leah’s most intimate yet. Her father was an assistant lighthouse keeper, and she draws inspiration from her enchanting childhood spent on remote lighthouse islands along British Columbia’s wild, windswept coast.

Imagine monthly deliveries of food, mail and supplies by a Canadian Coast Guard helicopter—Leah’s formative years in rugged isolation have left a lasting imprint on her design philosophy. The result? Jewelry that is as practical as it is chic, with adjustable, convertible styles that speak to her West Coast roots.

This year, Leah’s creative energy centres on resilience and rebirth—finding rays of hope when the world feels uncertain. The lighthouse becomes both muse and metaphor: a shimmering beacon that guides ships safely and inspires the collection’s defining message, “Carry the Light.”

The pieces: Beacon, Muse and layered details

The must-have of the collection is Leah’s show-stopping Beacon gold necklace, elegantly engraved with “Carry the Light.” More than a statement piece, it is a daily reminder to radiate joy and optimism — an accessory made to shine from sunrise to soirée.

Colour takes centre stage this season with a dreamy palette of blues and greens. The Muse necklace, inspired by ocean-tumbled sea glass, stuns in sapphire blue—a luminous choice for the upcoming holiday season.

The collection is designed for versatility: wear the jewels solo for understated chic, or layer them for a look with pure style. Textured leather bracelets add a bold, unexpected twist, giving the season’s wrist candy a more tactile West Coast edge.

Leah Yard Designs Jewelry

With its lighthouse symbolism, sea-glass palette, and versatile day-to-night styling, Leah Yard Designs’ latest jewelry collection channels the confidence of West Coast women.

For fall and the holidays, it invites you to play, mix, layer, and express yourself—because true style is all about letting your own light shine.

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Related story: Runway to Runway: How flight attendants became fashion models of the skies

EFWA

The showcase formed part of EFWA’s international fashion program, created to support the United Nations Fashion & Lifestyle sustainability initiatives while championing the livelihoods of women weavers from Towale Village.

Featuring exquisite handwoven textiles transformed into contemporary fashion, the collection demonstrated how cultural heritage and modern design can come together to create meaningful impact.

Led by EFWA Founder and Creative Director Dr. Zuhal Kuvan-Mills, the Australian delegation included professional models, make-up artists, and photographers who collaborated with the University to produce a special runway event.

The presentation reflected a vibrant exchange of creativity, bringing together Australian fashion professionals, Indonesian academics, students, and local artisans in a celebration of craftsmanship, culture, and sustainability.

Tadulako University

More than a fashion show, the EFWA Tadulako University event highlighted the power of ethical fashion to preserve traditional skills, empower women, and inspire a new generation of designers to embrace sustainability while honouring the stories woven into every textile.

Photos: Simon Lau

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During my visit to the Museum of Flight, I discovered a distinctive chapter in fashion history: flight attendant uniforms made from modern fabrics, defined by vibrant colours and striking silhouettes!

Learn about the European designers who dress flight attendants to make them the face of the airlines. See how uniforms turn them into movie stars as they walk across the terminal concourse. 

Check out my fashion story on fwtmagazine.com. 

Above photo: Eight Hughes Airwest flight attendants waving from the wing of a Douglas DC-9 aircraft, circa 1971-1978. Courtesy of the Museum of Flight.

Related story: International Fashion Gala Finale

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Returning for its fourth year, the False Creek Crab Fest has become one of Vancouver’s signature summer food celebrations, bringing together seafood lovers, families, and community members for an unforgettable afternoon of West Coast flavour and fun on the waterfront. 

Related story: Come and enjoy the Spot Prawn Festival

False Creek Crab Fest

At the heart of the festival is BC’s iconic Dungeness Crab, prepared in a delicious crab boil experience created by acclaimed local chefs including Vish Mayekar and Johnny Bridge. Guests will enjoy a whole locally harvested crab paired with BC Craft beverages while taking in the vibrant atmosphere of Vancouver’s working harbour.

Set against the scenic backdrop of False Creek Fishermen’s Wharf, the festival offers guests a rare opportunity to connect directly with local fishers, while enjoying one of Vancouver’s most scenic waterfront views. With live music, games, and educational booths, this vibrant outdoor event is fun for all ages. Come out and be part of the celebration. 

False Creek Crab Fest is a celebration with purpose. The event raises awareness for the sustainable management of British Columbia’s crab fishery and supports the future of the food and hospitality community. Proceeds help advance initiatives led by Chefs’ Table Society, including CTS’s culinary scholarships, mentorships, sustainability projects, and the development of The Commons by CTS – a gathering place dedicated to strengthening BC’s food and hospitality sector. Support the cause by attending. 

Ticket Information

Buy Tickets

Tickets include one delicious Dungeness Crab plate, a sweet treat, and two beverage-tasting tickets.

• Early Bird Tickets $65 per person + taxes on sale until June 14, 2026
• On June 15, 2025, General Admission Tickets are available for $70 per person + taxes
• Tickets at the door are available for $75 per person + taxes, subject to availability

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This year’s theme celebrated elegance, and David Chen did not disappoint.

Related story: International Fashion Gala: Ole to Elegance

Guests enjoyed music, dance, bridal wear, and opulent fashions.

David Chen himself showcased a beautiful floral dress with blue flowers. This was followed by YiYi Chinese dancers from Seattle, WA, and Japanese kimono dresses.

Mine Fashion presented a range of elegant yet stylish wedding, bridesmaid, prom, and evening dresses available for rental.

My favourite looks of the night were from the Myles Elegance collection. It presented theatrical flair, from the old-world opera to modern extravagant fashions. 

This year, Chen has partnered with the BC Cancer Foundation to champion the Vancouver Cancer Centre’s technology innovation initiative. 

Beneath the tall stained-glass windows surrounding the runway, the Gala was filled with fashion indulgence. An evening enjoyed by all. 

Photos: Simon Lau

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This inspiring theme set the stage for the Handmade for the Earth fashion show by Eco Fashion Week Australia (EFWA), which transformed the Vancouver Public Library (VPL) into a hub of creativity last May.

Related Story: EFWA: The Buya Subi Project

Handmade for the Earth

For more than 10 years, Founder and Creative Director Dr. Zuhal Kuvan-Mills has carried her eco-fashion vision across continents, inspiring audiences from Perth and Vancouver to Florence and, now, Palu, Indonesia.

Handmade for the Earth weaves together age-old textile artistry and contemporary design, sparking innovation in sustainable fashion and nurturing the growth of green economies.

The fashion collection featured Buya Subi, a silk Sarong Donggalaven from Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, handcrafted for over 300 years.

Eco fashion designers

The VPL fashion runway came alive with creations from more than a dozen designers representing Canada, Estonia, the Czech Republic, the UK, Spain, Italy, Indonesia, and Australia.

Vancouver audiences saw Green Embassy, Atelier Zuhal, Sylvia Calvo, LJR Design by Linda Russel, Leah Kelly By Design, Samantha Faye Designs, Fabric of Nature, Amme Dennis, Atelier Biologico, Nenjaka, Ravencroth Textile Studio, Funk N Soul97, Mon, Fina Collection, Acca Atelier, Temple of Redress, Haruu Zuzana Hrubos and Olga Ignatenko.

Buya Subi

We were all treated to eco-conscious runway shows in which sustainable designs blended bespoke craftsmanship with contemporary flair.

The Handmade for the Earth collection featured Buya Subi, silk Sarong Donggala textiles hand-woven in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, for over 300 years.

Dr. Kuvan-Mills strongly believes that the most radical act in fashion is to make it by hand. The future is handmade.

Fashion is much like art

EFWA is working towards:

• Preserve cultural heritage in the face of globalization.
• Drive sustainable, zero-waste design practices.
• Fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.

For Dr. Kuvan-Mills, fashion is much like art, sparking conversations about sustainability and cultural preservation, shaping consumer choices and the industry’s future.

EFWA’s next fashion show will be held in Perth, Australia, from October 30 to November 1, 2026.

Photos: Simon Lau

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In a world of waste, we choose zero.

In a world of machines, we choose the human touch.

Last May, Eco Fashion Week Australia (EFWA) brought the Buya Subi Project fashion show to a full house at the Vancouver Public Library.

Led by founder and creative director Dr. Zuhal Kuvan-Mills, the runway showcased work from 21 designers from Australia and beyond.

Related story: Okaridge Park redefines luxury retail in Vancouver

Dr. Kuvan-Mills is no stranger to the Vancouver fashion community. Nearly a decade ago, she debuted one of her first collections at Vancouver Fashion Week.

Today, she calls the city her second home, crediting its designers and journalists with reconizing her talent and encouraging her path in fashion.

The Buya Subi Project launches a new four-year EFWA initiative exploring the intersection of culture and sustainable fashion.

It is a landmark collaboration between EFWA, the Central Sulawesi government, the Consulate General of Indonesia in Vancouver and the UN Sustainable Development Goals initiative. 

At the centre of the project are women in Palu, Indonesia, who handcraft silk textiles on manual looms using a tradition more than 300 years old. EFWA is helping preserve that heritage at a time when globalization continues to pressure local craft communities.

Buya Subi, a traditional textile from Central Sulawesi, is more than a handwoven fabric. It embodies community, tradition, and a deep respect for the environment.

With support from the Sulawesi government, each of the 21 participating designers received two square metres of Buya Subi fabric and was invited to create a runway look around it.

The resulting pieces honoured the textile’s cultural significance, foregrounded environmental responsibility, and helped create a pathway for local women to build a sustainable craft economy through tourism.

Ultimately, the Buya Subi Project is about more than preserving textile heritage, craftsmanship, and design. It is also an invitation to rethink how—and why—we buy fashion.

Photos: Simon Lau

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Originally opened in 1959 as Oakridge Centre, the mall was developed by the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) on a then-undeveloped 32-acre forested site at West 41st Avenue and Cambie Street. Built with a construction budget of $25 million, the open-air shopping centre became Vancouver’s first major mall, anchored by the Woodward’s department store and surrounded by 2,500 surface parking spaces.

Related story: International Fashion Gala: Ode to elegance

Walking through the front doors of the new Oakridge Park reveals just how much Vancouver has evolved over the decades — from a quiet forestry town into a global city preparing to host FIFA and attract visitors from around the world.

Offering a luxury shopping experience

The all-new Oakridge Park is centred entirely around luxury retail. There are no fast-fashion outlets here. Instead, shoppers stroll along expansive granite floors lined with brands ranging from local favourites such as Lululemon and Aritzia to prestigious European fashion houses including Louis Vuitton, Brunello Cucinelli, and Bvlgari.

Surprisingly, several luxury boutiques, including Dior, were still not open despite the redevelopment having been underway for more than a decade. Most remaining tenants are expected to be operational by the fall.

Inside the mall, suspended glass art installations hang overhead, including a small indoor amphitheatre with church-style wooden pews that provides space for live performances and cultural programming.

Time Out Market

Located above the shopping centre is the new Time Out Market, the internationally recognized food hall concept founded in Lisbon with locations around the world. My most recent visit to a Time Out Market was in Barcelona last year, and stepping into the Vancouver location immediately brought back memories of enjoying authentic Spanish paella.

The food hall promises an elevated culinary and cultural experience, featuring cuisine from some of the city’s top chefs. Visitors can choose from 18 kitchens, three bars, a coffee shop, and a main stage dedicated to arts and cultural events.

Dining here, however, comes at a premium. The Le Croc burger from Feenie’s starts at $27.99, add foie gras, port wine jus and truffle fries, and your tab climbs to $72.96, not including tip and tax.

Most seating consists of large communal bench-style tables accommodating up to 1,000 guests. During the summer months, visitors can also dine outdoors on the rooftop patio while enjoying some of Vancouver’s best people-watching.

Luxury fashion and dining converges at Oakridge Park

Oakridge Park’s upscale retail tenant mix targets affluent shoppers and has historically posted the highest sales per square metre among malls across Canada.

Strategically located between downtown Vancouver and Vancouver International Airport, with access to the Skytrain, Oakridge Park appears well-positioned for long-term success despite a recent slowdown in global luxury goods spending.

Beneath the mall are 2,000 underground parking spaces, including 200 electric vehicle charging stations. Valet parking is available on the P1 level at both the north and south atriums, while the first two levels of underground parking remain free for up to three hours.

The Oakridge Park redevelopment was approved by the City of Vancouver in 2014 as a then-$1.5-billion project. Since then, it has expanded into a $5-billion development that includes five luxury condominium towers nearing occupancy, future office towers, and a proposed street-style shopping district still awaiting a construction timeline.

From luxury fashion to contemporary streetwear, Oakridge Park aims to bring together some of the world’s most established and innovative names in fashion. Vancouver has certainly grown since its beginnings. 

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Related story: Runway to Runway: Fashion takes Flight

Founded in 2017 by David Chen, the event was born from a deeply personal journey marked by loss, resilience, and gratitude. After losing his wife to cancer in 2012, Chen sought a meaningful way to honor her legacy while giving back to the community that supported him through unimaginable hardship. What began as a tribute has since evolved into one of Vancouver’s most inspiring cultural showcases.

Since its inception, the International Fashion Gala has grown into a vibrant platform celebrating diversity, artistic excellence, and emerging talent. Each year, it brings together acclaimed designers, performers, artists, and audiences from around the world. Creating a dynamic intersection of fashion and culture.

This year’s gala will gather elite designers, cultural icons, and creative visionaries whose collections reflect stories of heritage, perseverance, and identity. 

Yet beyond the runway, the evening carries a deeper humanitarian mission. In partnership with the BC Cancer Foundation, the gala will help launch a $50 million fundraising campaign to support Canada’s first next-generation clinical scanner — a transformative advancement in cancer care and research.

International Fashion Gala

By merging artistic expression with philanthropic purpose, the International Fashion Gala demonstrates that true elegance extends far beyond aesthetics. It is found in compassion, community, and the power to uplift others. More than a celebration of beauty, the gala stands as a catalyst for change. A reminder that fashion can inspire not only admiration, but action.

On May 30, guests will gather at Christ Church Cathedral to celebrate courage, creativity, and the enduring belief that style with meaning can help reshape the world.

International Fashion Gala

Christ Church Cathedral

May 30, 2026

Tickets Eventbrite

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